44 dead dogs found wrapped in plastic bags and packed in freezers in New Jersey woman's home

Donna Roberts has been charged with animal cruelty. (New Jersey State Police)

A New Jersey woman was charged with animal cruelty after authorities found 44 dead dogs — packed in plastic bags and kept in freezers — in her home.

New Jersey State Police discovered another 130 dogs living in deplorable conditions in and around the home of Donna Roberts, 65, in Shamong Township, N.J.

Advertisement

Roberts was arrested Tuesday after detectives made the grisly discovery while inspecting her residence.

The stench of animal feces — which permeated the home — caused some first responders to become nauseated and dizzy, according to a statement from New Jersey State Police.

Four dogs were taken to an emergency clinic in critical condition.

The remaining pooches were treated at the scene by animal shelter workers.

It’s unclear how the 44 dogs died.

Police called Roberts’ treatment of the pets “tragic.”

“Although the circumstances surrounding the demise of the 44 dogs that were discovered inside plastic bags in freezers remain under investigation, the deplorable and inhumane living conditions the rescued dogs were forced to endure is tragic,” Colonel Patrick Callahan of the New Jersey State Police said in a statement. “Troopers take an oath to protect and safeguard life, including the lives and well-being of pets, which can be vulnerable to abuse.”

Roberts was released from custody with a pending court date. The case is being prosecuted by the Burlington County Prosecutor’s Office.